Stress is an ever-present part of modern life. Yet one of the most effective buffers against it may be surprisingly simple: the feeling of being loved and cared for by those closest to us.A substantial body of psychological research has consistently demonstrated that social support plays a vital role in lowering stress levels and boosting mental well-being. Among the most powerful forms of this support is physical touch—a warm embrace, a reassuring hand squeeze, or simply holding hands (Ocklenbu...